The UFC’s return to London features an exciting light heavyweight clash between former champion Jan Błachowicz and surging contender Carlos Ulberg in the co-main event of UFC Fight Night 255. This is a classic matchup between an experienced veteran with well-rounded skills and a rising knockout artist looking to break into title contention.

Jan Błachowicz (29-10-1) – Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion

Jan Błachowicz, the former light heavyweight king, remains one of the most dangerous and battle-tested fighters in the division. The Polish powerhouse is known for his legendary "Polish Power," high-level kickboxing, and underrated grappling. With wins over elite names like Israel Adesanya, Dominick Reyes, and Corey Anderson, Błachowicz has proven himself as one of the best in the sport.

However, at 42 years old, questions about his durability and ability to keep up with younger, explosive opponents are beginning to surface. Since losing his title to Glover Teixeira in 2021, Błachowicz has struggled to regain momentum, going 1-1-1 in his last three fights. In his lats bout, he dropped a close split decision to Alex Pereira, failing to reclaim championship status.

Jan Błachowicz – Last Five Fights

❌ Loss – Alex Pereira (Decision) – UFC 291, July 29, 2023
🔲 Draw – Magomed Ankalaev (Split Draw) – UFC 282, December 10, 2022
✅ Win – Aleksandar Rakić (TKO – Knee Injury) – UFC on ESPN, May 14, 2022
❌ Loss – Glover Teixeira (Submission) – UFC 267, October 30, 2021
✅ Win – Israel Adesanya (Decision) – UFC 259, March 6, 2021

Carlos Ulberg (11-1) – #6 Light Heavyweight Contender

Carlos Ulberg is one of the most exciting prospects in the light heavyweight division. A former kickboxer and teammate of Israel Adesanya, Ulberg has showcased devastating knockout power and rapid improvements in his MMA skillset. His striking is technical and powerful, and his ability to control range makes him a nightmare matchup for most opponents.

Since suffering a knockout loss in his UFC debut, Ulberg has gone on a dominant six-fight win streak, finishing four of those opponents in the first round. Most recently, he outworked former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir in a unanimous decision victory, proving he can handle experienced competition. With another big win, Ulberg could position himself for a title eliminator.

Carlos Ulberg – Last Five Fights

✅ Win – Volkan Oezdemir (Decision) – UFC Fight Night, November 23, 2024
✅ Win – Alonzo Menifield (KO) – UFC on ESPN, May 11, 2024
✅ Win – Jung Da-un (Submission) – UFC 293, September 10, 2023
✅ Win – Ihor Potieria (TKO) – UFC on ABC, May 13, 2023
✅ Win – Nicolae Negumereanu (KO) – UFC 281, November 12, 2022

Fight Breakdown

This fight presents an interesting contrast in styles. Błachowicz is a complete fighter with knockout power, strong grappling, and years of championship experience. His ability to mix up striking with clinch work and takedowns makes him a well-rounded threat. However, he has struggled against faster, more technical strikers in recent years.

Ulberg, on the other hand, is an explosive kickboxer who thrives at range. His footwork, speed, and precision make him dangerous, especially in the early rounds. While his grappling is improving, he has yet to face a high-level wrestler or grappler of Błachowicz’s caliber. If Ulberg can keep the fight standing, he has a significant edge in speed and power.

Błachowicz’s best path to victory will be to mix in takedowns and wear Ulberg down. If he can force clinch exchanges and avoid a striking battle at range, he could control the fight. However, at 41 years old, his durability is a concern, and Ulberg has the power to end the fight with one clean shot.

Prediction:

While Błachowicz’s experience and well-rounded game make him a dangerous opponent, Ulberg’s speed and striking precision will likely be the difference. Expect Ulberg to use his movement to pick apart Błachowicz at range and eventually find an opening for a knockout.

Carlos Ulberg via KO (Round 2).